There’s something truly magical about Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie that instantly brings holiday cheer to any table. This festive dessert combines a creamy, minty filling with a crunchy chocolate crust, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a delightful treat that’s both refreshing and indulgent, making it a favorite during the winter season.
We love how this pie captures the essence of candy canes in a rich and smooth dessert that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply craving a seasonal sweet, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing experience. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this iconic pie and add a touch of Bakers Square magic to your dessert lineup.
Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie Recipe
Let’s dive into crafting the Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie, a festive dessert that brings creamy mint flavor and chocolate crunch into every bite. Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate this holiday favorite in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate cookie crumbs | 1 ½ cups | For the crust |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tbsp | Melted |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz | Softened |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | |
| Peppermint extract | 1 tsp | |
| Heavy whipping cream | 2 cups | Chilled |
| Candy canes | 4-5 large | Crushed for garnish |
| White chocolate chips | ½ cup | Melted, optional drizzle |
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust
- Combine 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter in a mixing bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set firmly.
“A firm crust is essential for holding the luscious mint filling perfectly.”
Step 2: Make the Minty Cream Cheese Filling
- In a large bowl, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 tsp peppermint extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In a separate chilled bowl, whip 2 cups heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, preserving light and airy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Pour the mint cream cheese filling into the chilled chocolate crust.
- Smooth the surface with a spatula.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes generously on top for a festive crunch.
- Optional: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the candy canes for an elegant touch.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the assembled pie for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- This allows the flavors to meld and the pie to firm up perfectly.
- Slice and serve chilled for a refreshing and indulgent holiday treat.
Baking & Storage Tips
| Tip | Detail |
|---|---|
| Crust chilling | Minimum 30 minutes |
| Filling chilling | At least 4 hours or overnight |
| Serving temperature | Keep pie chilled until serving |
| Storage duration | Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days |
“This pie shines best when served cold and freshly garnished with candy cane bits.”
By following these precise steps and using quality ingredients, our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie Recipe will become a staple in your holiday dessert lineup. Each bite bursts with creamy mint flavor framed by a crunch of chocolate cookie crumb crust and refreshing candy cane pieces.
Ingredients
To create the iconic Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie, we will need carefully selected ingredients that bring together its creamy texture, minty flavor, and chocolate crunch. Here is the precise list organized by each component of the pie:
For the Chocolate Cookie Crust
- 1 ½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs (about 20 chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Minty Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
For Garnishing and Decoration
- ½ cup crushed candy canes (plus additional for topping)
- Whipped cream (optional)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate cookie crumbs | 1 ½ cups | Crushed chocolate cookies |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons | Melted |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons | |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces | Softened |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Sifted |
| Peppermint extract | 1 teaspoon | |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup | Chilled |
| Crushed candy canes | ½ cup | Plus extra for garnish |
| Whipped cream (optional) | As needed | For topping (optional) |
Tip: Use softened cream cheese for smooth blending and chilled heavy cream to achieve perfect whipping consistency. Crushing the candy canes finely will ensure even distribution without overpowering the pie’s texture.
With these ingredients ready, we can move on to crafting the rich chocolate crust and the refreshing mint-infused filling that define this seasonal favorite.
Equipment Needed
To craft our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie with precision and ease, having the right equipment is key. Below is a detailed list of essential tools to ensure smooth preparation and excellent results.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch Pie Pan | To shape and bake the chocolate cookie crust |
| Mixing Bowls | For combining crust ingredients and mixing filling |
| Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer | To whip the cream cheese filling until light and fluffy |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | For accurate measurement of all ingredients |
| Rubber Spatula | For folding ingredients gently without deflating mixture |
| Food Processor or Rolling Pin | To crush chocolate cookies and candy canes finely |
| Whisk | For mixing powdered sugar and peppermint extract |
| Refrigerator | To chill crust and filling for proper setting |
Important: Using an electric mixer helps achieve the perfect creamy texture in our minty cream cheese filling. Meanwhile, a food processor or sturdy rolling pin efficiently crushes the chocolate cookies and candy canes into the ideal consistency for the crust and garnish.
By assembling these tools before starting, we streamline the baking process and ensure our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie turns out as festive and delightful as intended.
Prep Work
Before we start assembling the Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie, it’s essential to focus on the foundation: the crust and the filling. Proper preparation here sets the stage for a perfectly textured and flavorful pie.
Preparing the Crust
First, we need to create the rich chocolate cookie crust. Here is how we do it step-by-step:
- Crush the chocolate cookies into fine crumbs. Use a food processor for the best results or place cookies in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin until finely ground.
- Combine cookie crumbs with sugar and melted unsalted butter in a medium bowl. This binds the crumbs and adds a slightly sweet, buttery flavor.
- Press the mixture firmly into the 9-inch pie pan, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. Compressing the crust ensures it will hold together after chilling.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling solidifies the crust, giving us a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate cookie crumbs | 1 ½ cups | Finely crushed |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons | Melted |
| Granulated sugar | 2 tablespoons | Adds sweetness and balance |
Making the Filling
Next, we focus on crafting the minty cream cheese filling that defines this holiday pie’s signature flavor:
- Start by softening the cream cheese to room temperature. This ensures a smooth and creamy texture when whipped.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy.
- Add peppermint extract slowly to control the mint intensity, blending well to infuse the filling with that classic candy cane flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep it light and airy.
- Keep the filling chilled until ready to spread inside the pie crust.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces (softened) | Room temperature for smoothness |
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Sifted for lump-free mixing |
| Peppermint extract | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Heavy whipping cream | 1 cup | Whipped to stiff peaks |
Tip: Soft cream cheese and properly whipped heavy cream are crucial for a silky filling with a light texture, key to replicating the iconic Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie experience.
Directions
Follow these detailed steps to create the iconic Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie with its creamy texture and festive flair. We’ll guide you through making the whipped topping, assembling the pie, and adding the signature candy cane garnish.
Making the Candy Cane Whipped Topping
To achieve the perfect minty whipped topping that complements the creamy filling:
- Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. Cold tools help whip the cream faster and achieve better volume.
- Pour 1 cup of heavy whipping cream into the chilled bowl.
- Add 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar to sweeten the topping evenly.
- Drop 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the bowl to infuse that refreshing candy cane flavor.
- Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip the mixture until soft peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Be careful not to overwhip; the topping should be creamy and light, perfect for folding into the pie filling or topping the pie.
Assembling the Pie
Assembling your Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie is where the magic happens. Follow these concise steps:
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Prepare the chilled chocolate cookie crust | Remove from refrigerator, ensure firm texture |
| 2 | Spread the minty cream cheese filling | Pour filling evenly into the crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula |
| 3 | Chill the pie | Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set for a firm, creamy texture |
- We recommend using a rubber spatula to spread the filling smoothly.
- The chilling step is crucial for setting the filling and blending flavors beautifully.
Adding Candy Cane Garnish
The final step is to garnish your pie with crushed candy canes that provide crunch and visual charm:
- Take 1/4 cup of finely crushed candy canes. Use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
- Sprinkle the crushed candy canes evenly over the whipped topping or directly on the filling if you prefer.
- Optionally, add extra dollops of whipped cream around the edge before garnishing for a professional look.
- Return the pie to the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow the candy canes to slightly adhere.
“The candy cane garnish is more than decoration — it delivers the signature crunch and peppermint burst that makes the pie unforgettable.“
By following these steps, we ensure each slice slices cleanly and tastes like the beloved Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie we know and love.
Make-Ahead Tips
To ensure our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie delivers the best flavor and texture, preparation ahead of time is key. Here are our top Make-Ahead Tips to help streamline the process and keep the pie fresh and festive.
Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust in Advance
- Crush the chocolate cookies and mix with butter and sugar as directed.
- Press the mixture into the 9-inch pie pan firmly.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step helps the crust set firmly and prevents sogginess when adding the filling.
Make the Minty Cream Cheese Filling Ahead
- Soften cream cheese fully for a smooth texture.
- Mix with powdered sugar and peppermint extract, then fold in whipped cream.
- Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling the pie.
Whip the Topping Before Serving
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until soft peaks form.
- Keep chilled in the refrigerator but whip just before serving for the freshest, fluffiest topping.
Assembling and Storing the Pie
Once the crust and filling are prepared:
- Spread the filling evenly into the chilled crust.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the pie to set completely.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes immediately before serving to maintain the crisp texture.
| Step | Time Required | Storage Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Chilling crust | 1 hour | Wrap tightly, refrigerate |
| Preparing filling | Up to 24 hours advance | Airtight container, refrigerate |
| Setting assembled pie | 4 hours | Cover lightly, refrigerate |
| Whipping topping | Just before serving | Keep chilled until use |
Pro Tip: For the strongest flavor and cleanest texture, avoid assembling the pie more than a day in advance. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and keeps the candy cane garnish crunchy.
By following these make-ahead strategies for our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie, we guarantee a festive dessert that is as convenient to prepare as it is delicious to serve.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie, we recommend serving it chilled straight from the refrigerator. This preserves the creamy texture of the minty cream cheese filling and maintains the crispness of the chocolate cookie crust. For an elevated presentation and flavor experience, consider the following serving ideas:
- Slice the pie into generous portions using a sharp, warm knife to get clean edges and prevent cracking.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream flavored with a hint of peppermint extract to complement the pie’s minty essence.
- Garnish plates with extra crushed candy canes or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added visual appeal and a burst of flavor.
- Pair your candy cane pie slice with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea. The warm beverages balance the cool mint profile beautifully.
Temperature and Timing for Serving
| Step | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pie Chilling | 4°C (39°F) | Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight |
| Serving Temperature | 10-12°C (50-54°F) | Remove from fridge 15 minutes before serving for optimal texture |
| Whipped Topping | Serve immediately | Whip just before serving for freshness |
Serving Tips
- To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, avoid letting the pie sit at room temperature for more than 30 minutes.
- For kid-friendly gatherings, offer mini slices in clear cups topped with crushed candy canes for easy handheld dessert options.
- For an adult twist, add a splash of peppermint schnapps or a coffee liqueur on the side for guests to pour over their pie slice.
“The Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience that delights the eyes, palate, and senses, especially when paired thoughtfully with the right side elements and presentation.”
By incorporating these Serving Suggestions, we ensure each slice shines with festive flavor and irresistible texture, creating the perfect holiday centerpiece for every occasion.
Storage Instructions
To keep our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these steps to maintain the pie’s creamy texture and crisp crust.
Refrigeration
- After assembling, place the pie in the refrigerator immediately.
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from absorbing odors or drying out.
- Store the pie at a consistent temperature below 40°F (4°C).
Storage Duration
- The pie stays best for up to 3 days when refrigerated.
- Consume within this period to enjoy the minty cream cheese filling at its peak flavor and the chocolate cookie crust at its crunchiest.
| Storage Type | Temperature | Maximum Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated Pie | Below 40°F (4°C) | 3 days | Keep tightly covered to maintain freshness |
| Minty Cream Cheese Filling (Unassembled) | Below 40°F (4°C) | 24 hours | Store airtight, assemble soon after |
| Chocolate Cookie Crust (Pre-made) | Below 40°F (4°C) | Up to 2 days | Store in airtight container before filling |
Freezing (Optional)
- Freezing is not recommended for this pie due to potential texture changes in the creamy filling and candy cane garnish.
- If necessary, freeze only the chocolate cookie crust wrapped tightly and thaw in the refrigerator before assembling.
Serving After Storage
- Before serving, you can chill the pie for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Use a warm knife dipped in hot water for clean, neat slices that showcase the pie’s layers beautifully.
By following these Storage Instructions, we preserve the built-in festive charm and fresh goodness of our Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie for every delightful bite.
Conclusion
Making the Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie at home lets us bring a festive favorite right to our table. With its creamy mint filling and crunchy chocolate crust, it’s a dessert that truly captures holiday spirit.
By following the recipe and tips, we can enjoy a perfectly balanced pie that’s both delicious and visually stunning. Whether for a special occasion or a seasonal treat, this pie adds a memorable touch to any gathering.
With proper preparation and storage, we’ll have a dessert that stays fresh and flavorful, ready to impress family and friends throughout the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie special?
The pie features a creamy, minty filling paired with a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, creating a festive flavor perfect for the holiday season.
Can I make Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie at home?
Yes, the recipe is simple and includes step-by-step instructions for making the crust, filling, and garnish at home.
What ingredients are needed for the pie crust?
You’ll need chocolate cookie crumbs, unsalted butter, and granulated sugar to make the chocolate cookie crust.
How is the minty cream cheese filling made?
The filling combines softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and whipped heavy cream for a light, creamy texture.
What equipment is required to prepare this pie?
Essential tools include a 9-inch pie pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, rubber spatula, food processor or rolling pin, whisk, and a refrigerator.
How do I make the whipped topping?
Chill your bowl and beaters, then whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and peppermint extract until light and airy.
Can I prepare parts of the pie in advance?
Yes, the crust and filling can be made ahead and refrigerated separately. Assemble the pie no more than a day in advance to keep it fresh.
How should I store the pie after making it?
Refrigerate immediately after assembly, cover to avoid odors, and consume within three days for best taste and texture.
Is it recommended to freeze the Bakers Square Candy Cane Pie?
Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the crust and filling.
What are the best serving tips for this pie?
Serve chilled with a warm knife for clean slices. Adding a peppermint-flavored whipped cream or crushed candy cane garnish enhances flavor and presentation.